Current LPA registration time: 8-12 weeks on average. The Office of the Public Guardian (OPG) processes applications in the order received. Times can vary based on application volume and whether any issues arise.
LPA Registration Timeline
| Stage | Typical Time |
|---|---|
| Making the LPA (with professional) | 1-2 weeks |
| Signing and witnessing | 1-2 weeks |
| OPG registration | 8-12 weeks |
| Total | 10-16 weeks |
Why Does Registration Take So Long?
OPG Checks
The Office of the Public Guardian must verify:
- The form is correctly completed
- All signatures are in place
- The certificate provider is appropriate
- No objections are raised
- The donor had capacity when signing
Objection Period
After application, there's a window for people to object. Named "persons to notify" and the donor/attorneys can object.
Volume
LPA applications have increased significantly in recent years, creating backlogs.
What Causes Delays?
Common Reasons for Rejection/Delay
- Unsigned sections: Missing signatures from donor, attorneys, or witnesses
- Wrong witness: Using an attorney as a witness
- Certificate provider issues: Not meeting requirements
- Incomplete information: Missing addresses or details
- Payment problems: Incorrect fee or payment failure
- Objections raised: Family disputes can delay registration
How to Avoid Delays
1. Use a Professional
LPA services check everything before submission, dramatically reducing rejection risk.
2. Double-Check Everything
Review all signatures, dates, and witness details before submitting.
3. Choose Certificate Provider Carefully
Make sure they meet the requirements (professional, or known you 2+ years and not family/attorney).
4. Pay the Correct Fee
£82 per LPA. Check if you qualify for a reduction.
5. Apply Online
Online applications are generally processed faster than paper.
6. Apply Early
Don't wait until you urgently need the LPA. Apply while everyone is healthy.
Can You Speed Up Registration?
Unfortunately, there's no official fast-track service. All applications are processed in order.
However, if you have an urgent need (for example, the donor's health is rapidly declining), you can:
- Contact the OPG to explain the urgency
- Ask for the application to be prioritised
- Provide supporting evidence (medical letter)
This doesn't guarantee faster processing but may help in genuine emergencies.
What If You Need to Act Before Registration?
An LPA cannot be used until it's registered. If someone loses capacity before the LPA is registered, you may need to apply for deputyship instead - a much longer and more expensive process.
This is why planning ahead is so important.
Tracking Your Application
You can track your LPA application:
- Online: If you applied online, you can check status via gov.uk
- Phone: Contact OPG on 0300 456 0300
- Through your provider: If you used a professional, they may track for you
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use the LPA while waiting for registration?
No. The LPA must be registered before attorneys can act. Property & Financial LPA can be registered and used immediately (with donor's permission). Health & Welfare can only be used after the donor loses capacity.
How will I know when it's registered?
The OPG will send the registered LPA back to you with an official stamp.
What if my application is rejected?
You'll need to correct the error and resubmit. This means starting the waiting period again.
Do both LPAs need to be registered separately?
Yes, Property & Financial and Health & Welfare are separate documents, each requiring registration and the £82 fee.